Amanda Broadway
"Me Without You"

By Peter "Blewzzman" Lauro © February 2012

Being an "EP", "Me Without You" contains just seven original tracks totaling approximately 30 minutes of music. However, as the saying goes, good things do come in small packages. Assembling a band of a dozen choice musicians, Amanda Broadway's debut disc is quite long on talent.

Backing up Amanda, on the lead vocals, are: Derrek Phillips on drums; Steve Mackey on bass; John Deaderick on Hammond B-3, Wurlitzer & clavinet; Steve Walsh on acoustic guitar; Rob McNelley on electric guitar; Max Abrams on alto, tenor & baritone saxophone; Jon-Paul Frappier on trumpet; Jimmy Hall on harmonica; Angie Primm, Gale Mayes and Travis Thibodaux on background vocals; and Dan Cohen on guitar.

Musically and lyrically there's no doubt as to which genre of music "Me Without You" falls into because it's all about the blues. On the other hand, like several other young, female, contemporary blues artists, Amanda's vocal style would compliment songs of many genres.

As she belts out the opening and title track - "Me Without You" - graceful, soulful, powerful, and range defying are just several descriptions that come to mind concerning Amanda's vocal technique. Also outstanding are John and Rob on keyboards and guitar. An outstanding first impression.

"This and That" is the type of song that's a hit on several charts if put out by a more recognizable artist. No question about it. It's a beautiful song that's beautifully sung, and it's got a catchy chorus line that's a natural for singing along with. Amanda's leads and Travis' backup combine to make this the disc's best vocal track. Very good stuff!

"Ride" is one of the tracks that fits into the aforementioned "many" genres" comment. Amanda's soulful delivery, Angie and Gale's moving backup vocals, and John's heavenly sounding organ playing all give this one a spirited Gospel feel.

The first minute and a half of "Somethin' Funny Goin' On" is a soft duet between Amanda and Rob on guitar. Then about two minutes in, Rob wails away on some hot blues riffs, Amanda's voice gets increasingly powerful, the rhythm picks up and the horns start blaring. From then on it's all out heat.

Other tracks on "Me Without You" include: "Better Than You Can", "Left & Let Down", and "Out Of Your Way".

If you want to meet this young, beautiful and talented (all qualities I envy) singer, songwriter and bandleader, check her out at www.amandabroadway.com. And don't forget to tell her the Blewzzman sent ya.